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Surveillance Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Caesars Entertainment

Surveillance Agent

Danville, VA · On-site

$16/hr

Ensures all surveillance equipment is operating at start of shift, during shift and completion of shift. * Maintains all logs and ensures accuracy of log entries. * Maintains confidentiality of all ...

EKS Group

Surveillance Role Player I

Arlington, VA · On-site

$18/hr

Experience in operating communication devices such as cell phones, walkie-talkie type radios, GPS devices, and surveillance photo/video equipment. * Listen actively; speak clearly. * Determine ...

EKS Group

Surveillance Role Player I

Arlington, VA · On-site

$18/hr

Experience in operating communication devices such as cell phones, walkie-talkie type radios, GPS devices, and surveillance photo/video equipment. * Listen actively; speak clearly. * Determine ...

EKS Group

Surveillance Role Player I

Arlington, VA · On-site

$20/hr

Experience in operating communication devices such as cell phones, walkie-talkie type radios, GPS devices, and surveillance photo/video equipment. * Listen actively; speak clearly. * Determine ...

Allied Universal

Surveillance Investigator

Richmond, VA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Surveillance Investigator Job Locations US-VA-Richmond | US-VA-Petersburg Requisition ID 2026-1645654 Category (Portal Searching) Compliance & Investigations Business Unit CNI Overview Company ...

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All JobsSurveillance Operator JobsSurveillance Operator Jobs in Virginia

Surveillance Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do surveillance operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for surveillance operator in Virginia is $17.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.96 and $20.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a surveillance operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Surveillance Operator, you need keen observational skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring experience in security or law enforcement. Familiarity with closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems, video monitoring software, and incident reporting tools is typically required. Strong ethical judgment, discretion, and the ability to communicate clearly are vital soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring the safety and security of people and property by effectively detecting and responding to suspicious activities.

What is a surveillance operator?

Surveillance operators are professionals responsible for monitoring activity within establishments, such as casinos, retail stores, or security firms, using video and audio equipment. Their main job is to detect suspicious behavior, prevent theft or fraud, and ensure the safety of people and assets. They work in secure rooms, observing live camera feeds and recording incidents for further review. Surveillance operators may also coordinate with security personnel or law enforcement if they observe illegal or dangerous activities.

What are some typical challenges faced by a surveillance operator in maintaining effective vigilance during long shifts?

Surveillance Operators often work extended shifts, which can make staying alert and focused a challenge, especially during quieter periods. To maintain vigilance, operators use rotation schedules, regular breaks, and ergonomic equipment to reduce fatigue. Adapting to rapidly changing situations and distinguishing between normal and suspicious activities also requires strong attention to detail and continuous training. Working collaboratively with security teams and management helps ensure that any potential threats are promptly identified and addressed.

What are the responsibilities of a surveillance operator?

The responsibilities of a surveillance operator are to monitor the security video system at a casino or hotel casino, observe the movements and activities of the employees and patrons, and protect the establishment’s property. Whenever you observe issues, you direct security personnel, such as the pit boss, to intervene. Your main duties are to make sure there is not cheating or theft occurring at the gaming tables, either by gamers or the dealers, but you are also responsible for monitoring other problems, such as disorderly conduct.

What is the difference between Surveillance Operator vs Security Guard?

AspectSurveillance OperatorSecurity Guard
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, CCTV operation training, security certificationsHigh school diploma, security guard license
Work EnvironmentMonitoring security cameras, surveillance roomsPatrolling premises, physical presence on-site
Employer & Industry UsageSecurity firms, retail, corporate facilitiesCommercial, residential, retail, industrial sites
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both Surveillance Operators and Security Guards focus on safety, Surveillance Operators primarily monitor security footage and detect suspicious activity remotely, whereas Security Guards provide physical security through patrols and on-site presence. The roles often overlap in security settings, but their core responsibilities and work environments differ.

More about Surveillance Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Surveillance Operator jobs in Virginia? For Surveillance Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Surveillance Operator jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Surveillance Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Surveillance Operator jobs in VA? For Surveillance Operator jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Surveillance Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surveillance Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% Full Time, 50% Part Time, and 25% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,962 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Surveillance Operator

Churchill Downs Incorporated

New Kent, VA • On-site

$19/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Colonial Downs Group (CDG) is owned and operated by Churchill Downs Incorporated and consists of several different brands across Virginia: Colonial Downs Racetrack, Rosie's Gaming Emporium, Rosie's Game Room, Virginia Horseplay, Roseshire Gaming Parlor and The Rose Gaming Resort. CDG is an inclusive and fun place to work. We celebrate unique approaches and points of view. We believe diversity is a mindset that drives excellence. We're always learning, evolving, and growing. We innovate through mutual respect of ideas and collaboration. This allows us to build a common language that inspires our team members and propels us toward the achievement of our vision.
JOB SUMMARY
The Surveillance Operator observes all areas of the property and surrounding areas for suspicious behavior using video cameras, computer screens, monitors, digital recorders, access control systems, computer dispatch, video printers, switches, selectors, and direct observation to ensure compliance with all laws, regulations, policies, and procedures. This position is in New Kent and requires that team members be able to work nights, holidays and weekends.
Compensation: $19 per hour
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Utilizes surveillance equipment to observe, report, and record procedural violations and activities that may be unusual, suspicious, or illegal by guests and Team Members.
  • Operates surveillance equipment and software systems, including CCTV cameras, digital video recorders, and monitors to maintain situational awareness, reporting concerning activity to appropriate personnel.
  • Monitors all company assets, including but not limited to gaming and cage activity, food and beverage, and security of the facility as well as property Team Members and guests for procedural violations.
  • Detects and reports incidents of cheating, theft, fraud, or other security breaches to the appropriate personnel for all areas of the property, both indoor and outdoor.
  • Video tape questionable activities and make written reports to appropriate personnel.
  • Dispatches security officers as needed throughout the facility to monitor conduct.
  • Determines control call priorities and dispatches security, police, fire, traffic officers, maintenance, and facilities during emergencies as necessary.
  • Check for blind spots and camera outage or tampering.
  • Understand and operate all Surveillance camera switching reprogramming equipment, and use of all computer equipment.
  • Maintains cleanliness of workstations and equipment.
  • Develops detailed and accurate logs or reports observed by surveillance and inputs into the surveillance dispatch log.
  • Adheres to all gaming policies, procedures, and regulatory guidelines regarding surveillance operations to ensure confidentiality and ethical conduct.
  • Maintains knowledge of gaming laws, regulations, and company policies to ensure adherence to all safety protocols and procedures.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including ability to manage crowds effectively.
  • Excellent attention to detail and observational skills in analyzing video footage.
  • Proficiency in computer skills, including knowledge of video surveillance software, database management, and basic networking concepts.
  • Ability to multitask and respond to telephone and radio traffic.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Vocational or technical certifications in related field.
  • One year of experience in surveillance, security, loss prevention or related field.
  • A combination of education and experience may be considered.
  • Must obtain valid Virginia Racing Commission License.
  • Valid Driver's License.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORKING CONDITIONS
  • The Team Member will be required to sit and remain stationary for extended periods of time.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the Team Member is frequently required to sit or stand; walk; use hands to finger reach, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
  • The Team Member may be required to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • The Team Member may be required to work long hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud.
  • The work environment may vary in levels of crowds, noise, and smoke, depending on the assigned station and customer volume.
  • The work environment may consist of a dark area viewing video monitors for entire shift

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a Team Member to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Colonial Downs Group is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We encourage qualified individuals from all backgrounds to apply. If you are passionate about marketing and thrive in a fast-paced environment, we want to hear from you!
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability.
Work With Us
Churchill Downs Incorporated is an inclusive and fun place to work. We celebrate unique approaches and points of view. We believe diversity is a mindset that drives excellence. We're always learning, evolving and growing. We innovate through mutual respect of ideas and collaboration. This allows us to build a common language that inspires our team members and propels us toward the achievement of our vision.
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